Manchester United are closely monitoring the progress of FC Porto left-back Alex Sandro, while Tom Cleverley is set to be rewarded with a lucrative new deal following his rise in stature this season.
United left-back Patrice Evra has been outstanding for the club this season, not only putting in good performances in defense, but also chipping in with a few important goals.
However, the France international, whose current deal expires in the summer of 2014, will turn 32 before the end of the season, and Sir Alex Ferguson is keen on bringing a more younger fullback to eventually succeed the veteran.
There have been talks, however, over a one-year extension being offered to Evra, which would keep him at Old Trafford until 2015.
Alexander Buttner was thought to be the man to eventually replace Evra, with the 24-year-old making a switch from Vitesse last summer. But the Dutchman has only made two Premier League appearances all season, and United are reportedly looking at bringing in another fullback.
Sandro was bought by Porto from Brazil in 2011, and at 22 has already won six caps for his country.
The Brazilian international is good going forward but can also do his defensive duties well, and United sent out scouts to watch the youngster in action for Porto against Malaga in their recent Champions League encounter, according to the Daily Mail.
United have already been heavily linked with another former player in James Rodriguez, while they are also reportedly keeping tabs on midfielder Steven Defour.
Meanwhile, United are ready to offer Cleverley a new contract, even though his current deal runs until the summer of 2015, according to the Sunday People.
United want to keep the England international at Old Trafford for the foreseeable future and the club are ready to double Cleverley's current wages of £35,000 a week ($53,000).
The 23-year-old has established himself as a key first team member in Ferguson's squad this season, after injuries curtailed his progress in the last couple of years.
Cleverley is now also a regular member in the England national team, and said he wants to emulate United legend Paul Scholes for both club and country.
"With Scholesy at United it's more a case of just watching and learning rather than speaking to him," he said.
"But on the pitch I can learn a lot of things from him, the way he plays his game from short to long. He's a great person.
"He's a great example for me to have around. Obviously he is one of the best in the world, and has been for many years, at keeping the ball. Not only just keeping the ball but hurting teams as well."
